Noun, verb
2. Definitions:As a noun, cleek means a hook or a metal instrument used for grasping or holding things. As a verb, cleek means to hook or to catch something with a hook.
3. Pronunciations:US: /kliːk/
UK: /kliːk/
4. Origin and Usage:The word cleek originated from the Scottish language and was first used in the 15th century. It was originally used to refer to a shepherds crook or a hook used for fishing. Over time, the words meaning expanded to include any hook-shaped instrument used for grasping or holding things. Today, cleek is mostly used in Scottish and British English.
5. Synonyms:Hook, grasp, catch, snag, seize, grip
6. Related Words:Clank, creek, fleck, sleek, sneak
7. Example Sentences:As a noun:
- He used a cleek to catch the fish.
- She hung her coat on the cleek by the door.
As a verb:
- He cleeked the ball with his golf club.
- She cleeked the rope and pulled the boat to the shore.